The first members of the one-child generation have entered the age of marriage and childbirth. 

They are the product of China's planned child birth program that was introduced in the 1970s.  

Their children will grow up with even more intensive love and protection from everyone in their family. Six adults: a father, mother, paternal grandpa, paternal grandma, maternal grandpa and maternal grandma are all eager to pamper the only child in the family.

As these children don't even have cousins, they enjoy the best food and toys all to themselves.

Some kindergarten teachers mentioned that, in the past, among 20 children, many could eat by themselves. Now the reverse is true, only a few children are able to eat alone.

Many of these children have problems taking care of themselves and have trouble overcoming difficulties. Some of them have problems socializing with their peers, unable even to play with other children. They grab the toys they want directly from their playmates' hands instead of asking.

According to some experts in the educational field, the "only child" group is growing larger in kindergartens. The "6 adults plus 1 child syndrome" may give rise to unsociable, self-centered children, unable to deal with difficulties.

(Chinanews March 29, 2005)